Why Less is More

by
James Dexter,
UX Designer

At Bulb Studios, we believe there are 3 core principles in delivering simple yet functional design solutions for websites and apps.

1- The elevator pitch

When conceptualising an idea, we aim to ensure the value, message or Unique Selling Point (USP) of a website/app is upfront, clear and concise. Any lack of clarity can quickly push potential customers away from a site, so content should also be easily digestible and well written to reflect this approach.

The UX designer brings value to a project by understanding the motivation of users.

Using the user story equation: As a (User type), I want to (User need), so that I can (User motivation) – is the backbone of user-centric User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) design solutions.

2- UX underpins UI

Good UX design is integral to good UI design because the visual aesthetic of your product is important. Its aesthetic beauty should be considered in line with its function. Decorative fluff brings no value to users and can obstruct the core message.

For example, a well-considered website should have:

Structure and navigation to aid users through the website,

A consistent design ethos to create flow,

Details to provide moments of feedback and delightful interactions.

All of this combined makes the website intuitive and simple to navigate.

3- Sweat the small stuff

A minimalist approach requires absolute attention to detail. Considered use of typography, colour and layout are paramount to aesthetic beauty. This careful consideration will elevate the functional aspects of a product to provide a delightful user experience.

Minimalist design we appreciate.

The Trainline’s app does simplicity really well. The app makes buying tickets and getting updates about journeys almost effortless. An otherwise tiresome and laborious process is made completely painless, which encourages repeat use and adds recognition and trust in the company.

The landing page of Airbnb’s site sums up their offering in two words – ‘Live there.’ The site front loads the ability to search for places to stay and understands their users may not know where to stay – placing and a wealth of suggestions only a scroll away.

Medium makes reading on devices beautiful. The use of typography puts the writing first. Its simple colour scheme accentuates the hierarchy of the page and creates subtle yet clear calls to action.

At Bulb Studios, we believe that the best things in life are the simplest.